FC Dallas fans can now enjoy a creative twist on some culinary classics thanks to Erika Dabney, Toyota Stadium’s new executive chef.
Chef Dabney has years of experience in the stadium and sports food industry and hopes to add her unique twist to the food fans already love.
“I hope to find new creative ways to be true to what Texas is, and what I’m learning Texas is,” Dabney told WFAA. “There’s a lot to learn.”
Toyota Stadium’s edible offerings are handled by Legends Hospitality culinary team, which Dabney will now help direct.
“We are continually studying what fans enjoy to take our FC Dallas match day to new levels of fun,” said Kristy Rempel, Legends Hospitality general manager at Toyota stadium.
The new mid-summer food items, which Dabney says are inspired in some part by either her work or fond memories, include chorizo nachos, jerk spiced chips with pineapple salsa, a monster burger, a Greek chicken bowl, a baked bean and brisket dog, and a smoked turkey baked potato.
Dabney’s new dishes officially premiered Friday during the FC Dallas versus LA Galaxy match at Toyota Stadium.
“Chef Dabney has led the creation of excellent and innovative additions that meet our goals to bring even more enjoyment to FC Dallas match day as the soccer energy continues to grow to new heights in North Texas,” said Rempel.
Dabney became executive chef at Legends after previous executive chef Rex Turner was appointed to the district chef position for Legends Hospitality.
“Chef Rex has done a phenomenal job here for the last five years,” Dabney said. “Those are tough shoes to fill.”
Chef Dabney wants all future culinary professionals to know that advancing in the industry is hard work.
“Don’t expect it to be easy, be prepared to work harder than everybody else,” Dabney said. “Come in first, leave last. Don’t forget to have fun.”
To learn where to find Dabney’s different culinary creations within Toyota Stadium, visit the venue’s website.